Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Loschy.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Loschy Designs first began selling handmade items back in 2006 (when I opened an Etsy shop). I sold hand-stitched jewelry, bags made from used books, and scarves with elaborate fabric flowers. It wasn’t until 2014 that I rebranded “Loschy” into a line of inventive jewelry inspired by places I traveled to. Shortly after transitioning it into a full-time business, I created the first Loschy Crowns, which were initially props for a jewelry photoshoot set in Downtown LA. Buyers took to the avant-garde headwear and over the last 4 years, I’ve developed and streamlined a huge array of durable and unique crowns.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Navigating the world of wholesaling was the first challenge. Figuring out the correct price for buyers so that we both have profit margins was very difficult at first. Over the course of a few years, its become a lot easier.
Another huge obstacle was hiring help. Once I began taking on larger orders with shorter production times, I had to begin training others so that I could delegate specific tasks in the crown making process. Once I got over my fear of becoming a “boss” I was able to open the doors to more growth.
One of the ongoing challenges to this day is one that many makers endure…. the feeling of isolation. Working from home all day can become mundane, uninspiring and most of all lonely. Hiring an assistant has definitely helped but a great decision I made almost a year ago was to begin renting a small studio in a space where other female entrepreneurs work from on occasion.
In addition to this, it has allowed me to have a place where people can go to try on my pieces that is more professional. So, shameless plug, you can schedule an appointment to meet me and try on all the crowns inside Goldmine Vintage in Glendale on San Fernando Road!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Loschy Designs – what should we know?
Loschy Designs offers a line of Avant-Garde Crowns and Tiaras for music festivals, weddings, costume parties, or even while you’re vacuuming the house. They’ll make you feel special no matter what you’re getting into.
In additional, Loschy includes collections of hand-stitched jewelry using a combination of fabric and graphics created from photos that I (Melissa Loschy) have taken while traveling around the world.
What I’m most proud of as a company are my customers – hear stories of how wonderful someone felt wearing one of my pieces when they got married, graduated, had a bad day, etc. That’s what keeps me doing what I’m doing.
What sets me apart most of all is my inventive hand sewing technique. Everything I sell has a stitched element. This makes both the jewelry and crowns durable and lightweight.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
What has been most important for my success is a combination of continually growing as an artist (exploring new techniques, constantly seeking inspiration) as well as committing to good customer service for both my wholesale buyers as well as my retail buyers.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4225 San Fernando Rd Glendale, CA 91204
- Website: www.Loschy.etsy.com
- Phone: 9495103635
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/LoschyDesigns
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/loschydesigns
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